Since I started having panic attacks, I’ve been using medication to help me cope and function in life. The first medication I was put on was called Lexapro. For the most part, I was okay on this medication; however, during sexual activity, it made it difficult for me to finish, especially at a higher dose. Due to this issue, I was switched to a new medication called Pristiq. This medication is similar to Lexapro but is said to have fewer sexual side effects. I’m not sure I am fully convinced of that yet, but I have been able to finish a few times.
As part of the ongoing process of trial and error, another medication they put me on was Topamax. This medication seemed to make me feel very emotional and sad much of the time. In addition to this, at higher doses, it also affected my ability to finish during sex.
I was also given Wellbutrin, and that one seemed to make me extremely agitated and anxious. We stopped it rather quickly.
Finally, I was given Abilify to try and replace the medications we stopped, and that medication increased my irritability significantly. I noticed it brought my thoughts into overdrive, and I became more suspicious and negative about what was happening around me. It really affected my life during those few days I took it. I wasn’t abusive or anything like that, but my thoughts were very negative. Everything bothered me and made me think the worst. It was surprising and unsettling how such a small pill could have such a strong impact on my feelings and behavior.
Right now, I am back to only taking Pristiq, and I’m pretty much back to feeling normal. I must say, these medications are really powerful, and they can affect your mood in ways you might not expect. Please be careful and let your doctor know right away if your demeanor, thoughts, moods, or anything else changes drastically while on any medication. The sooner you catch it, the sooner you can address it.
Good luck to you on your mental health journey. I’m right there with you.
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